Greif Denies PSG Stars with String of Saves as Enrique Admits: 'It Was Very Tough'
Slovakia international Dominik Greif started in goal for the visitors, making seven crucial saves to keep a clean sheet against the reigning European champions until the 72nd minute.
The hosts eventually secured all three points courtesy of substitutes Senny Mayulu and Mika Godts, sealing PSG's eighth consecutive victory in all competitions. The Parisians dominated proceedings from the outset, but were repeatedly thwarted by Lyon's disciplined backline and an inspired Greif.
The Slovak goalkeeper produced several standout stops to deny Désiré Doué, Ferran Torres, and Vitinha. Lyon carried a threat on the counter as well, forcing Matvey Safonov into action at the other end, notably against Julien Duranville and Zachary Athekame.
Manager Luis Enrique's substitutions ultimately decided the contest. Godts, who came on in the 57th minute, teed up Mayulu on the edge of the penalty area in the 72nd minute, and the 20-year-old Frenchman fired past Greif to open his league account for the campaign.
Godts put the result beyond doubt in the 84th minute, rounding off a swift counterattack by clinically finding the far corner from Quentin Ndjantou's pass. It marked the first PSG goal for the 21-year-old Belgian winger since arriving from Ajax in the summer.
"It was very difficult. Lyon have top-quality players and a very good manager. We started well, but they defended brilliantly. We improved further in the second half, and the goals came from players who usually get fewer opportunities. I'm delighted for everyone who came off the bench," Luis Enrique told PSG TV.
The Spanish coach dedicated the victory to the injured Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament during last week's 4-2 Champions League win over Barcelona. "We dedicate this win to Kvara. We are a team that wants to win everything—that is our mentality," the PSG boss emphasized.
Lyon head coach Paulo Fonseca praised his team's display despite the loss. "Playing against PSG is always extremely tough. Tactically, we played a very solid game, but the individual quality of their players made the difference. I am happy with the team's performance and attitude. Right now, it's difficult to ask for more," the Portuguese tactician told Ligue 1+.
PSG registered their fifth straight league win to move top of the table on 17 points, one ahead of Rennes. Lyon slipped to fifth on 14 points after suffering their second defeat of the season. The fixture was originally slated for Sunday, but was postponed by 24 hours at the request of Paris police due to security concerns over public protests.